What Employers Really Care About: CompTIA A+ Exam Version vs Certification Status

"Is CompTIA worth it?" This question comes off the top of my head as you think over investing time and resources into IT certification. The answer is a soaring win, certified IT professionals typically earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. CompTIA A+ appears in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential. This makes it a valuable asset to advance your career.

The value of CompTIA A+ certification becomes clear with numbers. By 2025, over 1.2 million professionals will hold this credential. This global recognition serves as a measure for entry-level IT competence. Companies now require or prefer candidates with industry-standard certifications. A quick search on Glassdoor shows more than 2,500 active job listings that reference this certification.

In this piece, you'll find what employers actually value about your CompTIA status. They might care more about having the certification itself than the specific exam version you completed. The certification's relevance, version differences, and practical ways to boost your certification's value matter whatever time you earned it. Quality resources and practice tests can help you succeed if you're preparing for exams.

What is CompTIA A+ and Why It Matters

The CompTIA A+ certification ranks among the oldest and most respected credentials in information technology since its first issue in 1993. This vendor-neutral certification has evolved into an industry standard with over one million holders worldwide. Many tech professionals start their careers with this certification.

Overview of the A+ certification

CompTIA A+ is the life-blood credential that shows your simple skills in computer hardware, software, and basic networking. You need to pass two separate exams: Core 1 and Core 2. Core 1 tests hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting skills. Core 2 evaluates software, operating systems, and cybersecurity fundamentals.

The latest version, V15 (220-1201 and 220-1202), launches on March 25, 2025. Each exam includes up to 90 questions through multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based formats. You must take both exams from the same version, mixing versions isn't allowed. A passing score means at least 675 (on a scale of 900) for Core 1 and 700 for Core 2.

Who it's for and what it covers

CompTIA A+ certification suits IT beginners and professionals who want to prove their technical skills. CompTIA suggests 12 months of hands-on experience in IT support. However, you can take the certification without professional experience.

This certification covers:

• Hardware installation, configuration, and maintenance
• Software troubleshooting and operating system support
• Basic networking concepts and SOHO network configuration
• Mobile device and laptop management
• Security fundamentals
• Cloud computing and virtualization basics
• Professional communication and customer service skills

The certification qualifies you for entry-level roles like help desk technician, technical support specialist, desktop support administrator, field service technician, and associate network engineer.

Why it's considered foundational in IT

A+ certification stands as the life-blood credential for several reasons. It serves as a measure of entry-level IT competence worldwide. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has accredited it since 2008. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) approved it for its Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program.

Major tech companies value this certification. HP, Dell, and Intel require their technicians to have CompTIA A+ certification. This requirement shows how the certification measures technical ability across the industry.

A+ certification opens doors to specialized IT paths. The exam's broad coverage of fundamentals helps you build a framework to tackle IT problems systematically. These problem-solving skills prove valuable in ground IT environments where troubleshooting matters most.

The knowledge you gain while studying for A+ helps you advance to certifications like Network+ and Security+. So, A+ certification not only prepares you for your first IT job, it builds the foundation for a lasting career in technology.

Understanding CompTIA A+ Exam Versions

IT certification forums often mention numbers like 220-1101 or 220-1201 in discussions. These numbers aren't random - they show specific versions of CompTIA's A+ certification exams. The version differences will help you plan your certification path better.

What is an exam version (e.g., 220-1101 vs 220-1201)?

CompTIA's certification tests come with specific versions marked by unique code numbers. Right now, you need to pass two exams to get A+ certified: 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2). CompTIA plans to launch new versions, 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2), on March 25, 2025.

These key points make exam versions different:

• New versions include updated content that matches current technologies
• Version codes follow a pattern (220-XXXX for A+ exams)
• You must take both Core exams from the same series, you can't mix 220-1101 with 220-1202

Your final credential stays the same no matter which version you take. People who pass the 220-1101/1102 series get the same A+ certification as those who complete the 220-1201/1202 series. This keeps the certification's value steady whatever time you earned it.

How often CompTIA updates exams

CompTIA releases new exam versions every three years. This schedule helps them keep certifications relevant in our ever-changing tech industry.

The next transition includes:

• 220-1201/1202 exams launch: March 25, 2025
• 220-1101/1102 exams retire: September 25, 2025 (English language)

You'll have about six months where both exam versions are available. This window lets you pick which version fits your study progress and timeline best.

Your A+ certification stays valid for three years. This time starts from the day you pass your second exam if two exams are needed. You'll need to keep your certification current through continuing education or new tests.

Why versioning exists

CompTIA creates new exam versions because technology keeps moving forward.
These certifications earn respect because they reflect what's happening in the industry now. An IT certification that hasn't changed in nine years wouldn't prepare you for today's work challenges. Regular updates make the certification valuable to both certificate holders and employers.

Each version brings big changes to match the digital world. Looking at 220-1101 versus 220-1201 shows some interesting moves:

• Networking grew from 20% to 23% of exam content
• Mobile Devices dropped from 15% to 13%
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting slightly decreased from 28% to 29%

These changes show what matters most in IT today. Networking skills have become more important while mobile device management has leveled off.

New topics also appear in recent updates. The latest A+ now covers software as a service models, cloud-native applications, and remote troubleshooting. This reflects how distributed work environments have grown.

Exam versions can affect your job prospects too. While resumes rarely show version numbers, your updated knowledge from current materials shows you're ready for work. Employers value this fresh knowledge, especially for entry-level jobs where basics matter most.

Check exam retirement dates before starting your A+ certification. If you've started studying for 220-1101/1102, try to finish before October 2025. If not, waiting for new exams might help your career more in the long run.

Certification Status vs Exam Version: What’s the Difference?

Many people working toward certification wonder about the real meaning of "CompTIA A+ certified" compared to passing specific exams like 220-1101 or 220-1201. This difference matters a lot if you're asking yourself "is CompTIA certification worth it" for your career path.

What certification status means

Your certification status shows if you have an active, valid CompTIA A+ credential, not which exam version you passed. You become "CompTIA A+ certified" without any version number on your official credential after you pass both required exams (Core 1 and Core 2).

Your certified status stays valid for three years from when you pass your second exam. You can list "CompTIA A+ certified" on your resume without adding specific exam codes during this time. Your certification looks the same whether you passed the 220-1101/1102 or 220-1201/1202 exam pair.

The certification carries real weight, it shows up in job listings more often than any other IT credential for technical support roles. This fact alone answers whether "a CompTIA A+ certification is worth it" for many people starting in IT.

Your certification becomes inactive after three years unless you renew it. You can renew by retaking exams or earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through various professional activities.

How versioning affects certification status

Exam versions change about every three years, but these changes don't change your certification status. The "CompTIA A+ certified" credential stays the same for everyone who holds it, unlike the split between associate and professional certifications.

The switch from current 220-1101/1102 exams to new 220-1201/1202 versions in March 2025 creates a six-month period where both work. You can pick either version to get certified during this time, and your final credential stays the same.

Already certified? New exam versions won't cancel your existing certification. Your credential stays good for its full three-year term no matter what new versions come out. You don't need to take the newest exam version to renew, CEUs work just fine to keep your status active.

Do employers care about the version number?

Employers care about your certification status, not which exam version you passed. Most hiring managers just check if you have an active CompTIA A+ certification through their validation tool.

In real-life hiring, people screening resumes look for "CompTIA A+ certified" rather than specific exam codes. Job applications rarely ask about which version you completed. They focus on whether you have the credential.

The core skills that CompTIA A+ checks stay consistent across versions, even though newer exams cover more recent tech. This explains why having the credential matters more than its version to employers.

Some situations might make version numbers matter:

• Government or specialized IT jobs with strict rules
• Organizations using older tech might value knowledge from previous versions
• Companies partnering with CompTIA might have detailed certification needs

The question "is it worth getting CompTIA A certification" in 2025 and beyond comes down to the certification's overall value, not specific version numbers. Your practical skills and problem-solving abilities matter more than which exam version you conquered.

What Employers Actually Look For in A+ Certified Candidates

Getting a CompTIA A+ certification opens doors, but what happens next? Industry research shows that 96% of human resources managers use IT certifications as screening or hiring criteria during recruitment. This statistic answers the question "is comptia worth it" from a hiring standpoint, but the certificate tells only part of the story.

Certification status vs ground skills

Companies see your CompTIA A+ certification as proof of baseline knowledge and your dedication to your career. Companies spend substantial resources to train inexperienced employees. Your certification shows you've already invested in yourself.

A hiring professional puts it this way: "Having the CompTIA A+ on your resume communicates to the employer that you're serious about your career". The paper credential needs practical abilities to back it up. Your certification shows knowledge, but jobs need you to apply that knowledge.

The gap between certification and job readiness remains most important. A Pearson VUE survey showed that 61% of IT professionals reported feeling unprepared for ground job tasks after passing exams that didn't include hands-on training. Many employers now look beyond the credential itself.

Hiring managers evaluate candidates in three areas:

• Technical knowledge (verified by certification)
• Practical application skills
• Professional workplace behaviors

Importance of hands-on experience

National Training Laboratories studies show that students retain up to 75% more information through hands-on practice compared to passive learning methods. This stark contrast shows why practical experience often matters more than certification status.

LinkedIn Learning research reveals that 79% of hiring managers prefer practical experience over certifications alone. This doesn't reduce certification value, it shows that application matters as much as knowledge.

A home lab provides vital practice space. CompTIA suggests: "Practicing at home not only helps you prepare for IT certifications such as CompTIA A+, but it also shows employers that you're committed to learning new skills".

Future employers ask about your independent projects. Your answers reveal how well you apply certification knowledge to real situations. Stories about troubleshooting through home labs or personal projects show value way beyond exam answers.

Soft skills and communication

Technical expertise makes up just one part of an IT professional's value. "A help desk technician must have both hard and soft skills because the position requires a solid technical understanding and the ability to communicate clearly with others".

Daily support scenarios require you to:

• Diagnose technical issues effectively
• Identify appropriate solutions
• Explain complex concepts in simple terms
• Build trust with non-technical users

CompTIA includes professional communication in exam objectives. Their Soft Skills Essentials course emphasizes five vital areas: character and professionalism, communication, collaboration and teamwork, critical thinking, and career success.

Active listening plays a vital role in IT support. Users' non-technical problem descriptions guide your troubleshooting process. Your ability to "put people at ease" during stressful technical situations distinguishes exceptional technicians from average ones.

Remote work makes the balance between technical and communication skills more vital. Note that "you don't have to know all the answers, you just need to know how to find the answers". Employers often care more about this mindset and strong communication than which exam version you passed.

Does the Exam Version Impact Job Opportunities?

Wondering if your exam version number affects your job chances? You're not alone. Many IT professionals ask if it matters whether they took 220-1101 or 220-1201 when looking for jobs. The answer isn't simple - several factors come into play.

Are newer versions more valuable?

New CompTIA A+ exam versions give you some advantages. The latest version (V15) has updated content on technologies that companies use today, like cloud computing, hybrid work technologies, and remote support. Your knowledge of current workplace tools can give you an edge.
The foundational value of the certification itself outweighs version differences. Companies worldwide trust CompTIA A+ as proof that IT professionals can "think on their feet and perform critical support tasks". This recognition stays strong across all versions.

Updated exam topics show technology changes rather than brand new skills. To cite an instance, V15 covers Windows 11, newer mobile OS versions, and better cloud computing integration. These updates make your knowledge current, but the core troubleshooting skills that employers value remain the same.

How employers interpret version numbers

Employers care more about having the certification than its version. Job listings usually say "CompTIA A+ certification required" without mentioning exam codes. HR teams and application systems look for the certification itself, not specific versions.

Hiring managers see A+ certification as "the starting point for a lifelong learning experience rather than a standalone achievement". This view emphasizes your learning and adaptation skills over the exam version you passed.

Many IT professionals see certification as "a long-term career trajectory". Employers value this dedication to growth, often more than the specific technologies in your exam version.

Tech companies expect "certified individuals should be ready to adapt to evolving technologies and workplace needs". Your ability to adapt matters more than knowing content from any particular exam version.

When versioning might matter

Some situations make your exam version more important:

• Organizations with strict IT requirements (government agencies, specialized industries)
• Jobs needing knowledge of recent technologies (like cloud-native applications)
• Companies looking for technicians who know hybrid workforce support
• Roles dealing with new security challenges covered in recent versions

Your certification timing might affect which version makes sense. Waiting months for a new version could slow down your career progress. Remember: "The 220-1102 is valid, accepted, and will remain active even after the new version launches".

Your credential stays valid for three years whatever version you passed. This long validity means even "older" versions give you good value for money.

So is CompTIA A+ certification worth it whatever version you choose? Industry data says yes, entry-level IT job listings mention this certification more than any other credential, making it valuable no matter which exam you conquered.

How to Stay Relevant Regardless of Exam Version

You retain control of your CompTIA A+ certification's value beyond your original exam success. Your credential needs renewal after three years from certification. The renewal process shows employers you stay current and grow professionally - qualities they value greatly.

Continuing education and CEUs

The CompTIA Continuing Education (CE) Program lets you keep your certification active flexibly. You need 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within your three-year renewal cycle for A+ certification. These CEUs show your dedication to professional growth.

You can earn CEUs through several activities:

• Attending industry events and conferences
• Completing training courses or college classes
• Participating in professional webinars
• Gaining hands-on work experience

CompTIA's certification portal helps you track CEUs by uploading activity documentation. You can see your progress toward renewal requirements and certification status clearly.

CertMaster CE and other renewal options

CompTIA CertMaster CE provides the most direct path to renewal. This self-paced e-learning course helps you bridge knowledge gaps between your exam version and current release without taking a new exam.

CertMaster CE renewal requirements include:

• Your certification must remain valid within its three-year period
• You must have passed a previous version of the exam (220-1101/1102 or earlier for A+)

Buy and complete the course with 100% scores on all assessments. Your certification renews automatically after completion with no extra CE fees that cycle.

You can also renew through these single activities:

• Pass the latest version of the full A+ exam
• Earn a higher-level CompTIA certification
• Earn a qualifying non-CompTIA IT certification

Building a home lab or gaining experience

A home lab helps you practice beyond certification requirements. Even a simple setup reinforces exam concepts through hands-on work.

You can start a home lab without spending much. Here's how:

• Get older computers from family, friends, or thrift stores
• Take apart and rebuild hardware to understand components
• Try different operating systems to build versatility
• Create virtual machines using free software like VirtualBox

One IT professional shares: "The most proven method of learning for an IT professional is by breaking it, fixing it and then breaking it again". This hands-on approach develops troubleshooting skills that exams can't fully test.

Volunteer work and side projects provide real-world practice. These experiences give you concrete achievements for interviews that often matter more than your exam version.

Does CompTIA A+ certification provide long-term value? Evidence says yes - if you focus on growing your skills after certification. Knowing how to adapt and grow matters more than the specific exam version you passed.

Common Misconceptions About A+ Certification

Myth-busting time! The internet is full of mixed opinions about CompTIA A+ certification. Let's sort out what's true and what's not about this entry-level IT credential.

Is CompTIA A+ enough to get a job?

Yes, but there are some conditions. A+ certification helps you land interviews and many companies recognize it for entry-level IT roles. Many jobs need it specifically for helpdesk or residential computer repair positions.

A reality check shows:

• A+ by itself won't guarantee a job , it opens doors to interviews where you must prove your skills and fit
• Certifications don't directly lead to jobs but they boost your chances
• A+ works best as a starting point , you'll need hands-on practice to grow

A tech industry expert puts it straight: "Studying for the A+ certification, you'll learn details you'll never use in the tech field. Still, it remains important for your cert belt if pursuing entry-level positions".

Is a CompTIA A+ certification worth it without experience?

Yes, you can get A+ certification without prior work experience. CompTIA suggests 9-12 months of experience before taking the exam, but this isn't required, it just helps you pass.

New test takers should prepare well. The certification checks your technical knowledge rather than practical skills. A passing grade gives you credibility with employers even without experience.

Is it worth getting CompTIA A certification in 2026?

Experts disagree on this. Critics say A+ certification in 2026 might not be worth its cost. Two exams cost about $400, a big investment for an entry-level credential.

Supporters argue that A+ builds credibility and teaches core skills needed for starter positions. Many employers today list it as a must-have for entry-level IT roles.

A balanced view shows that A+ won't get you a six-figure salary right away, but it can help you break into the field. Career changers and IT newcomers can use this certification as an affordable, recognized way to start and grow.

The bottom line? Take it if someone else pays. If you're spending your own money, look at your situation, newcomers to IT will get more value than seasoned pros.

Best Resources to Prepare for the Latest Exam Version

Quality study materials that match the latest exam objectives are essential to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification. The right resources will boost your chances of passing your first attempt - a significant factor to determine if CompTIA A+ deserves your investment.

Crucial Exams 220-1201 practice test

Crucial Exams delivers a complete preparation package with the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1) practice test through 1,000 expert-written practice questions. Their platform specializes in test preparation instead of concept teaching.

The Crucial Exam platform features:

• 1,000 practice questions that match current exam objectives
• 152 flashcards with essential acronyms and terms
• 9 Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) that simulate real exam scenarios
• An AI study companion "Bash" that answers questions and creates study plans

You can try free questions before you buy. The IT Package costs USD 19.99/month and gives you access to all CompTIA exam materials. They also sell discounted exam vouchers at USD 233 for the standard A+ voucher - USD 32 less than regular price.

Official CompTIA resources

CompTIA's own training solutions support both self-study and instructor-led learning. Their official resources perfectly match exam objectives.

The CertMaster Learn platform gives you 40+ hours of content through interactive lessons, visual aids, videos, games, and flashcards. CertMaster Labs lets you practice hands-on in browser-based virtual environments with real-life scenarios where you configure systems and fix network issues.

CertMaster Practice helps assess your readiness through adaptive knowledge tests that show your strengths and weak spots, with customized feedback to strengthen problem areas. Traditional learners can pick up Official Study Guides in print and digital formats.

Community forums and study groups

Community resources give you valuable tips from people who've taken the exam. The CompTIA Instructor Network (CIN) runs forums where professionals talk about certification topics and share their experiences.

Reddit's r/CompTIA community brings test-takers together to share their wins, setbacks, and study methods. Users often write detailed posts about their exam experiences with practical tips you won't find in study guides.

Study groups, whether online or in-person, help keep you motivated. Teaching concepts to others strengthens your understanding - a technique called the "protégé effect" that helps you remember better.

Conclusion

CompTIA A+ certification proves its worth again and again for IT professionals who want to start or advance their careers. In this piece, we got into what employers really care about - your active certification status matters more than the specific exam version you completed. An active A+ credential unlocks opportunities for tech support positions in companies of all sizes.

Getting certified is just the beginning. You need to apply what you learned in ground situations. Employers look beyond your paper qualifications. They assess your troubleshooting abilities, hands-on experience, and communication skills. These elements define your worth as an IT professional, not just the exam numbers on your certificate.

The right preparation makes all the difference when it comes to exams. Crucial Exams' CompTIA A+ 220-1202 practice tests are a great way to get realistic preparation with 1,000 expert-written questions that match current objectives. Their flashcards and performance-based questions simulate actual testing scenarios and build your confidence and competence.

Your certification needs ongoing maintenance, whatever version you choose. The three-year renewal cycle helps you stay current with evolving technologies through continuing education units or retesting. This steadfast dedication to professional development impresses employers more than specific exam details.

CompTIA A+ certification is definitely worth it for IT beginners. The credential shows up in job listings more often than any other IT certification for technical support roles. While it won't guarantee instant employment, it improves your interview chances by a lot and shows your commitment to the field.

CompTIA A+ is a solid foundation to build your IT career. The specific exam version matters less than how you use your knowledge afterward. Build practical skills while studying for certification and you'll be ready to succeed in the competitive IT job market.